National Kitten Day falls each year on July 10th and is a designated day in the United States dedicated to celebrating our favorite baby furballs. It was conceived by animal welfare activist Colleen Paige in 2013.1 National Kitten Day is an opportunity for cat lovers, pet enthusiasts, and animal welfare organizations to promote kitten adoption, raise awareness about kitten care and health, and encourage responsible pet ownership.
Read on to learn more about this adorable holiday!
What National Kitten Day Is All About
The day typically involves various activities and initiatives to appreciate kittens and highlight their importance as beloved pets. These activities may include:
- Adoption Events: Shelters and animal rescue organizations often host adoption events or promotions on National Kitten Day to encourage people to adopt kittens in need of loving homes.
- Education and Awareness Campaigns: Animal welfare groups use this day to educate the public about the needs, care requirements, and health considerations for kittens.
- Fundraising Drives: Some organizations use National Kitten Day to launch fundraising campaigns aimed at supporting the care and well-being of kittens, especially those in shelters and rescues.
- Social Media Presence: Cat enthusiasts and pet lovers often use their social media accounts to share adorable kitten pictures, stories, and videos, using hashtags like #NationalKittenDay to join the conversation and spread awareness.
- Kitten-Themed Events: Local communities or organizations may host events like kitten parades, picnics, or contests to celebrate kittens and provide a fun gathering for cat lovers. Events like these can be especially fun for families with young children.
How to Observe National Kitten Day
National Kitten Day is an excellent occasion to celebrate the joy and companionship that kittens bring to our lives while promoting responsible pet ownership and welfare for our feline friends of all ages. You could donate money or supplies to a local animal rescue group or see what other volunteer services they need. They’d probably welcome volunteers of all kinds and all talents.
If you’re the artistic or crafty type, you could create some cat-themed projects to decorate your home or office. And, of course, you could spend the day with those special cats and kittens in your life, spoiling them with extra attention and affection.
Why Adopt Instead of Shop for a Kitten?
National Kitten Day might inspire you to finally adopt a sweet little kitten of your own. It’s never a good idea to spontaneously get a pet of any kind, so make sure you only celebrate by adopting if you’ve already been planning on bringing a kitten into your life. There are many compelling and compassionate reasons to choose to adopt a pet from a shelter or rescue organization over buying one.
Here’s why adopting a kitten is the better choice:
- Saving a life. Adoption gives a homeless animal a chance at a better life. Shelters are often overcrowded, and adopting a kitten frees up space for another cat in need.
- Combating overpopulation. By adopting from shelters, you contribute to reducing the number of stray and unwanted animals in your community.
- Promoting responsible breeding practices. Opting for adoption instead of buying discourages irresponsible breeding practices that may prioritize profit over the health and well-being of animals.
- Supporting Ethical Treatment of Animals. Many pet stores and commercial breeders may not prioritize the welfare of animals, while shelters and rescue organizations work to ensure the well-being of animals in their care.
- Health and Vaccinations. Adopted kittens often come spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and sometimes microchipped, saving you on initial healthcare costs.
- Assessment of Temperament. Shelters usually assess the temperament and behavior of animals, helping you find a kitten that matches your lifestyle and preferences.
- Support Local Communities. By adopting from local shelters or rescue groups, you support your community and help local organizations continue their important work.
- Focus on Homeless and Neglected Animals. Shelters and rescues often prioritize the care and rehabilitation of animals in need, giving them a chance for a loving home and a better life.
- Mixed Breeds and Unique Personalities. Shelters often have a variety of mixed-breed kittens with unique personalities, offering a chance to find a truly special feline companion.
- Educational Experience. Visiting a shelter or rescue center can be an educational experience, raising awareness about pet homelessness and animal welfare issues.
- Long-Term Commitment. When you adopt a kitten, you’re making a long-term commitment to care for and love an animal in need, giving them a forever home.
- Feel Good About Your Decision. Adopting a kitten is a rewarding and fulfilling experience, knowing that you’ve made a positive difference in an animal’s life.
Conclusion
If you can’t get enough of the cute, cuddly beings, you probably go absolutely gaga for kittens. And you are certainly not alone! On National Kitten Day, we celebrate everything awesome about kittens and promote the adoption of kittens from shelters and rescues. Be sure to look up local kitten-themed events and activities taking place in your city or town next July 10th.
Featured Image Credit: evrymmnt, Shutterstock
